My arguments for stricter licensing laws were again reinforced after hearing from the convention headliners:

Prominent Real Estate Attorneys Ron Rossi and David Hamerslough repeatedly gave examples of how licensees have harmed consumers. Rossi spoke of how a slow market results in "cutting corners and shady practices." Rossi actually consults for the FBI, DA and DRE. They have both seen an increase in criminal investigations against the licensed andunlicensed. It is imprudent to suggest that unlicensed persons practicing real estate will result in fewer criminal and civil prosecutions.

California Real Estate Commissioner Jeff Davi quipped he is in the business of "giving or taking away a license." One of his graphs showed a steady increase in licensees. For instance, in '03/'04 there were 292,000 licenses in "good standing." By '06/'07 there were 535,000 licensees, one in 53 Californians with a real estate license. He also followed the day's themes, that complaints have gone from 5,091 in '01/'02 to 9,103 in '06/'07, (one-third are criminal). He had to hired new investigators and also predicts a large fall-out of licensees. The Commissioner gave examples of toughening licensing requirements for new and current licenses. Thankfully, this commissioner, a second generation broker, is Not interest in "just collecting fees."

Kris Berg of San Diego must have been in the San Jose audience when CAR Attorney Gov Hutchinson spoke. Hutchinson also always puts on a good show. He commented that while sales are down from two years ago, CAR is getting twice the number of calls on their legal hotline. In fact, so much so, CAR had to hired a bevy of real estate attorneys to assist with the barrage of calls.

These private and public organizations know why toughening licensees laws are so important. In fact, CAR has sponsored multiple bills toughening licensing laws which would ultimately cut the amount of fees they could collect. The DRE toughened exams and continuing education requirements for new and existing licensees. That would also mean fewer fees collected. What do these organization know that the naysayers don't? Good business,..is good for business.

Pat Kapowich, "Negotiating Smooth Transactions Throughout The South
Bay" SiliconValleyBroker.com